Randall's Island Park - Image 1
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Randall's Island Park

4.4
·5k reviews·New York, United States

A sprawling urban park with athletic fields, nature, and stunning city views, offering a diverse recreational escape.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Randall's Island Park - Image 1

Randall's Island Park

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling urban park with athletic fields, nature, and stunning city views, offering a diverse recreational escape.

4.4
(5k reviews)

"Beautiful park with lots of stuff to do and wonderful views of the city!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Bridge

Skip the infrequent M35 bus and walk the pedestrian bridge for easier access and great views. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated!

Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Hydration stations can be scarce. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Athletic Fields

Expansive Athletic Fields

Throughout the park

Dozens of well-maintained fields for soccer, baseball, and more. Perfect for sports enthusiasts and casual play.

Instagram+1
Scenic City Views

Scenic City Views

Waterfront areas

Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Manhattan skyline and the Hell Gate Bridge. Ideal for photography and leisurely strolls.

TikTokInstagram
Restored Wetlands and Nature

Restored Wetlands and Nature

Western side of the island

Explore natural habitats and diverse birdlife in the park's revitalized wetland areas. A peaceful escape within the city.

Reddit
Community Farm

Community Farm

Central park area

Discover urban farming initiatives and learn about sustainable agriculture at this unique community garden.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Randall's Island

Getting to Randall's Island Park can be a journey. While accessible from multiple boroughs, public transport options like the M35 bus can be infrequent. Consider walking over the pedestrian bridge for a more direct route, especially if you're coming from Manhattan. Be prepared for potential crowds during major events like Electric Zoo or Curlfest. Reddit

Embrace the Outdoors, Mind the Smells

Randall's Island Park offers extensive athletic fields, walking/biking trails, and restored wetlands. However, be aware that the park is adjacent to a sewage treatment facility, which can lead to unpleasant odors, particularly on hot days. Reddit Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as water stations can be limited. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, mid-day
Why
Sports fields less busy
Crowd
Low
When
During major events
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#nyc #crisis #randallsisland #notgood #border #fyp #fypage #fypシ゚viral #fypp #foru #foryou #foryoupage #foryourpage #tiktok #viral #genx
@kalli_with_a_k
121.5K likes • 729.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Bridge

Skip the infrequent M35 bus and walk the pedestrian bridge for easier access and great views. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated!

Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Hydration stations can be scarce. Reddit :droplet:

“My mom didn’t deserve this.” Diana Agudelo, a 44-year-old mother from Queens, remains hospitalized after suffering a brutal attack on Randall’s Island. She was found unconscious and bleeding along a remote bike path last Friday, with her bike stolen. Agudelo had left her job at the Museum of the City of New York and never made it home. A colleague, alerted by the discovery of her phone, notified ...
@cbsnewyork
67.4K likes • 814.6K views
Randalls Island Park... . . . . . . #newyork #newyorkcity #nyc #photo #photography #photographer #travel #manhattan #randallsisland #randallsislandpark #roadtrip #instamood #picoftheday #portrait #portrait_vision #portraitphotography #portrait_mood
bolin.jpg
139 likes • 3.4K views

👃 Be Prepared for Odors

The park is near a sewage treatment plant; odors can be strong on warm days. Reddit :facewiththermometer:

⚽ Pack a Ball

With so many fields, bring your own gear for impromptu games. Instagram+1 :soccer:

📍Randalls Island Park ⚽️ • • • • • • • • • • • • • • #thebeautifulgame #jogabonito #soccer #futbol #futbolsoccer #picturesofnewyork #foxracing #nyc #ilovenewyork #thebeautifulgame❤️⚽️ #practicemakesperfect #soccerlife #ilovesoccer #lapasiondelfutbol #futbolesvida #newyork_inspiration #soccertime #soccerskills #jogabonitobrasil #jogabonito #fifa22 #fifaworldcup2022
__heykid
0 likes • 5.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Bridge

Skip the infrequent M35 bus and walk the pedestrian bridge for easier access and great views. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Stay Hydrated!

Bring plenty of water, especially in summer. Hydration stations can be scarce. Reddit :droplet:

👃 Be Prepared for Odors

The park is near a sewage treatment plant; odors can be strong on warm days. Reddit :facewiththermometer:

⚽ Pack a Ball

With so many fields, bring your own gear for impromptu games. Instagram+1 :soccer:

📸 Capture the Skyline

The views of Manhattan are stunning, especially during golden hour. TikTokInstagram :camerawithflash:

🚲 Bike Trails Galore

Enjoy miles of dedicated bike paths with scenic city backdrops. TikTokInstagram :bike:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Randall's Island Park is praised for its well-maintained athletic fields, beautiful city views, and extensive trails, making it a great spot for sports and outdoor activities. However, visitors frequently mention the unpleasant odors from a nearby sewage treatment plant and the park's somewhat remote location, which can make public transport challenging. Reddit+1

"Very nice up kept fields, and play areas. If you happen to be staying at any events near here, the parking (which is free) is very nice and close. The only downside is that it is right near a sewage treatment facility so everything smells really, really, really bad. They have nice walking and biking trails for exercise, and they stretch for many miles. All in all, the upkeep is wonderful and I would recommend this park to anyone needing to stretch their legs while in the five burrows or to those who play sports. See for yourself!"

Ari Boone

"Went to the One Bite pizza festival, it’s a beautiful park with a lot of stuff to do and wonderful views of the city! Even if you’re not going for an event, it’s probably worth walking down via the bridge!!"

Jeremy Gibbs

"Nice park but very far from the city and difficult to get to. The M35 is very slow and infrequent and is usually faster to walk. The bridge to get to the island is not very nice as it is next a very loud busy highway. Decently clean and safe."

Z S

What People Like

Well-kept athletic fields
Scenic city views
Extensive trails

What People Dislike

Sewage treatment odors
Inconvenient public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Randall's Island Park is accessible via the M35 bus from Manhattan, which can be infrequent. Many visitors opt to walk or bike over the pedestrian bridges from Manhattan, Queens, or the Bronx for a more direct and scenic route. Reddit Driving is also an option, with parking available, though it can fill up during events. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Randall's Island Park, and it's often free, especially outside of major event days. Reddit However, parking lots can fill up quickly during large events like Electric Zoo or Curlfest. Instagram+1

Absolutely! There are pedestrian bridges connecting Randall's Island to Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. Walking or biking over is a popular way to access the park and offers great city views. InstagramReddit

From Manhattan, you can take the M35 bus, but it's often recommended to walk or bike over the pedestrian bridge for a more reliable and enjoyable experience. Reddit

Yes, Randall's Island Park features extensive bike paths, making it a great destination for cycling enthusiasts. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Randall's Island Park itself is generally free to enter and explore. However, specific events held within the park, such as Electric Zoo or Cirque du Soleil, will require tickets. Instagram+1

Yes, if you plan to attend a specific event like Electric Zoo, Cirque du Soleil, or Curlfest, you will need to purchase tickets for those events. Instagram+2

The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, hours can vary for specific facilities or during special events. It's best to check the Randall's Island Park Alliance website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

No, there are no general entrance fees to access Randall's Island Park. You can freely explore its grounds, fields, and trails. Reddit

You can find information about upcoming events on the Randall's Island Park Alliance website, as well as through social media channels that promote specific festivals and gatherings held there. Instagram+2

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Randall's Island Park offers a wide range of activities, including playing on athletic fields, biking and running on trails, exploring wetlands, visiting the community farm, and attending various events and festivals. Instagram+4

Restroom facilities are available within the park, though their availability and condition can vary. It's advisable to be prepared, especially if you plan on spending an extended period. Reddit

While generally considered safe, some visitors have noted that certain areas can feel desolate, especially in winter. Reddit It's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas, particularly after dark. Reddit There have been reports of incidents, so exercising caution is recommended. TikTok

The park offers stunning panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Hell Gate Bridge, and the surrounding waterways. It's a fantastic spot for photography and enjoying the urban landscape. TikTokInstagram

Dogs are generally allowed in Randall's Island Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check the latest park regulations for any specific restrictions. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are very limited dining options directly within Randall's Island Park itself. Visitors often bring their own food and drinks or rely on food vendors present during special events. InstagramReddit

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Randall's Island Park. There are many open spaces and fields where you can set up a picnic. Reddit

During large events like festivals (e.g., Electric Zoo, Vegandale Fest), food trucks and vendors are typically present, offering a variety of cuisines. Instagram+1

While there are a couple of hydration stations, drinking fountains are scarce throughout the park, so it's highly recommended to bring your own water. Reddit

Alcohol policies can vary depending on park regulations and specific events. It's best to check the official Randall's Island Park Alliance guidelines or event-specific rules before bringing alcohol. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront areas offer stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Hell Gate Bridge, making them prime locations for photography. TikTokInstagram The open fields and natural areas also provide diverse photographic opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's advisable to check the specific regulations for Randall's Island Park before attempting drone photography. Reddit

Landscape photography capturing the city skyline, sports photography on the fields, and event photography during festivals are all popular at Randall's Island Park. Instagram+2

General photography is usually permitted, but commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and private areas. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the skyline and landscapes. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Randall's Island Park offers plenty of space for families to run and play, with numerous athletic fields and open areas. Instagram While there aren't many dedicated playgrounds, the sheer expanse of the park allows for imaginative games and exploration. Reddit It's a great spot for a family picnic, but remember to bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as food options are limited outside of event days. Reddit Be mindful of the park's proximity to a sewage treatment plant, as odors can be strong on hot days, which might affect younger children. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Runners and Cyclists

For runners and cyclists, Randall's Island Park is a dream. The park boasts miles of dedicated paths, offering scenic routes with impressive views of the Manhattan skyline and bridges. TikTokInstagram The terrain is relatively flat, making it ideal for both casual rides and more intense training sessions. Reddit You can easily spend hours exploring the island's perimeter and interior paths. Reddit

⚽ Sports Enthusiasts

With over 60 athletic fields, Randall's Island Park is a paradise for sports lovers. Instagram It's a popular venue for soccer, baseball, and other team sports, with leagues and casual games frequently taking place. Instagram If you're looking to play, consider bringing your own equipment or joining a pickup game. Instagram The well-maintained fields are a major draw for athletes of all levels. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find a wealth of opportunities at Randall's Island Park. The waterfront provides stunning vistas of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Hell Gate Bridge, especially during the golden hours. TikTokInstagram The park's diverse landscapes, from open fields to natural wetlands, offer varied backdrops for portraits and scenic shots. Instagram Be aware that large events can sometimes limit access to prime photo spots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dual Nature of Randall's Island Park

Randall's Island Park presents a fascinating duality. On one hand, it's a beloved urban oasis boasting over 60 athletic fields, community gardens, and restored natural habitats, offering a much-needed green space for New Yorkers. InstagramReddit+1 It's a hub for sports, recreation, and enjoying scenic city views. TikTokInstagram

However, the island has also become a site for temporary housing for migrants, leading to visible encampments and discussions about its changing landscape. TikTok+1 This has led to mixed perceptions, with some visitors noting the presence of tents and assistance buildings alongside the recreational facilities. Reddit It's important for visitors to be aware of this context, which can impact the overall atmosphere and accessibility of certain areas. TikTok

Getting Around and Staying Comfortable

Navigating Randall's Island Park requires some planning. While accessible by public transport (M35 bus), many find it more convenient to walk or bike over the pedestrian bridges, which also offer great views. InstagramReddit The park is vast, so comfortable footwear is a must if you plan to explore extensively. Reddit

Comfort is also key due to environmental factors. Visitors should be prepared for the possibility of strong odors from the nearby sewage treatment facility, especially on warmer days. Reddit Bringing ample water is crucial, as hydration stations are limited, and the park can get hot. Reddit Despite these challenges, the well-maintained fields and trails make it a worthwhile destination for outdoor activities. Reddit

Events and Activities: A Seasonal Showcase

Randall's Island Park is a dynamic venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, transforming its open spaces into vibrant hubs of activity. From the massive electronic music festival, Electric Zoo, Instagram to cultural celebrations like Curlfest for the natural hair community Instagram and performances by Cirque du Soleil, Instagram the island draws diverse crowds. Instagram

Beyond these large-scale events, the park is a popular spot for local sports leagues, community gatherings, and even unique festivals like Vegandale Fest. Instagram+1 The presence of these events means that while the park offers ample space, it can also experience significant crowds and require ticket purchases for entry. Instagram+2